Manchester United’s Official Betting Partner: Now available in South Africa since 2021
Lovers of the game and Manchester United fans living in South Africa can raise their supporters’ scarves! From Cape Town to Durban, Johannesburg to Bloemfontein. You have seen the Betfred Logo emblazoned around Old Trafford, cheering on the Red Devils alongside you in spirit. That is because Betfred, is the official betting partner of Manchester United since 2006, and a part of South Africa’s betting landscape since 2021.
So who are we? Why are we Manchester United's Official Betting Partner...
More Than Just a Bookmaker, a Legacy in the Beautiful Game
Brothers Fred and Peter Done were convinced that England would win the World Cup in 1966 and decided to act on this belief. The Brothers backed England to win the World Cup twelve months earlier in 1966. With the proceeds from the bet, they bought their very first betting shop in Ordsall, Salford in 1967. This would be the start to what would become one of the world’s leading independent bookmakers.
In the 1980’s while the world was getting their hands on the first-generation Macintosh. Fred Done became known as the “Bonus King” following his invention of the lucky 15 bet type, this would become one of the most popular bet types in the industry. We are a community built on a shared passion for sports.
In 1997 Done Bookmakers absorbed under their umbrella the Robert Walker Chain. A milestone that marked an incredibly significant period of growth. With 100 shops and counting, the New Millennium dawned on Betfred with 200 stores and counting, soon Done Bookmakers premises could be found in the Capital too.
Manchester United: A Partnership Rooted in Passion
As lifelong Manchester United fan Fred Done made national news in 1998 when he paid out early on his Beloved Manchester United to win the league title. He was the first-ever bookmaker to settle in this way, in March, when the reds were 12 points clear – only for Arsenal to win the league by a point. This is testament to our founders unwavering dedication and love for Manchester United. Our partnership transcends mere sponsorship; it is a celebration of the beautiful game, the emotions it evokes and the passion of every Manchester United Fan.
2004 was a massive year as Done Bookmakers changed their name and became the brand we know them as today, Betfred. An online digital presence was launched offering not only all the core sportsbook offering but also introducing a massive range of additional products including but not limited to Poker, Lotto, Casino, Bingo, and Virtual Sports. It was also a noticeably big year for one of Betfred’s customers who landed a mighty £1,132,657 on the totescoop6 in one of Fred’s Salford shops, thus becoming the very first betting shop millionaire.
By the time 2005 came around, Betfred opened its first on course betting shop at Haydock Park, bringing Fred’s famous bonuses to racecourse punters. This would serve as a precursor to the big chapter that would start in 2006. Betfred were confirmed as the official Betting Parners of both Manchester United, and the newly re-built Wembley Stadium.
Bringing the Betfred Experience to South Africa
Betfred became a part of South Africa's gaming landscape when they acquired Betting World, a former subsidiary of Phumelela Gaming and Leisure, in June of 2021. The following year the Betfred South Africa footprint would grow with the UK Based Bookmaker expanding its South African Portfolio by acquiring Sepel's Best Bet popularly known as Sportsbet. In 2024 Betfred has over 50 locations in South Africa spanning 7 provinces.
A key part of Betfred is community. Our Betting shops are known for their friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always available to help customers with their betting needs. Our betting shops offer a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making them a popular choice for customers in the UK, USA, and South Africa by offering a safe and secure betting environment that adheres to local regulations and prioritises responsible gambling.
At Betfred we provide competitive odds and a wide range of markets on all your favourite sports including, of course, extensive coverage of Manchester United matches. In addition, we develop exciting promotions and offers tailored specifically to South African fans. We are becoming a part of the local football landscape, supporting grassroots initiatives, and fostering a sense of community among Mzansi's people.
We invite every Manchester United fan to stay tuned! We are just getting started, and we are here to elevate your football experience with a combination of passion, expertise, and exciting opportunities online and in our stores. Keep an eye out for updates and, in the meantime, show your true colours and join the Betfred family!
Remember to gamble responsibly. For help and support, visit Responsible Gambling
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford.
